Ultimate Guide to Printing Prevention in Holsters

Ultimate Guide to Printing Prevention in Holsters

Want to avoid printing while carrying concealed? Here’s a quick rundown of what you need to know:

  • Holster Design Matters: Adjustable cant, ride height, claws, and wedges reduce visibility.
  • Carry Positions: Appendix (AIWB) works well for athletic builds, while behind-the-hip is ideal for larger frames.
  • Clothing Tips: Looser shirts and jackets help hide outlines without sacrificing comfort.
  • Essential Gear: A sturdy gun belt keeps your holster secure and prevents shifting.

For a practical solution, consider the Houdini Holsters Breakout 2.0, designed for comfort and concealment. It’s currently available for $69.99 with a 36% discount through May 12, 2025. Want more details? Keep reading to master the art of concealed carry.

3 Steps to Concealed Carry Without Printing

Holster Design Features That Stop Printing

Today's holsters are designed with features like adjustable cant and ride height, making it easier to conceal your firearm while ensuring quick access.

Cant and Height Settings

The cant adjustment allows you to change the angle of the holster, positioning the firearm to better align with your body and minimize its outline. Ride height, on the other hand, determines how high or low the holster sits. A lower ride height improves concealment, while a higher position can make drawing your firearm faster and more efficient.

Finding the right combination of cant and ride height is a matter of trial and error. Adjust these settings to strike the perfect balance between staying discreet and being prepared. Additionally, features like claws and wedges can take concealment to the next level by further reducing printing.

Best Positions for Concealed Carry

Finding the right carry position means striking a balance between keeping your firearm hidden and ensuring it’s comfortable to wear. The ideal position depends on your body type, daily activities, and the size of your firearm. Pairing this with a holster designed to minimize printing can make concealed carry more effective.

Front vs. Hip Carry Methods

Appendix Inside-the-Waistband (AIWB) carry places your firearm between the 12 and 2 o’clock positions. This setup is great for concealment, allows for quick access, and offers excellent control. On the other hand, hip carry - positioned between 3 and 5 o’clock - works well for larger body types. It spreads the weight evenly and helps conceal longer-barrel firearms by blending the outline into your natural shape.

Carry Position Concealment Draw Speed Comfort Best For
AIWB (12–2) Excellent Fast Moderate Athletic builds
Strong Side (3) Good Fast Good Most builds
Behind Hip (4–5) High Standard Excellent Larger frames

Matching Position to Body Type

Choosing the right carry position also means considering how it fits your physique. For taller individuals, AIWB carry often works well, as their longer torso helps conceal the firearm without causing discomfort while sitting.

If you have a larger midsection, carrying behind the hip at 4–5 o’clock can distribute the weight better and use your body’s natural contours to keep the firearm hidden.

Quick Tips by Body Type:

  • Athletic Build: AIWB provides excellent concealment.
  • Average Build: Strong-side carry (3 o’clock) offers a good balance of control and accessibility.
  • Larger Frame: Behind-the-hip carry (4–5 o’clock) ensures maximum comfort and concealment.
sbb-itb-7fb5bb8

Gear and Clothing for Better Concealment

The right gear and clothing can make all the difference when it comes to keeping your concealed carry setup comfortable, secure, and discreet. Let’s break down how a proper belt and smart wardrobe choices can improve your concealment game.

Picking the Right Belt

A sturdy gun belt is the backbone of any concealed carry setup. It’s not just any belt - it’s designed to hold your holster and firearm securely in place, preventing unnecessary movement or "printing" (when the outline of your firearm becomes visible through clothing). When shopping for one, look for a belt that can handle the weight of your firearm without sagging or shifting. This ensures your holster stays where it should, keeping your carry both hidden and comfortable.

Dress Code Tips

Your clothing plays a big role in effective concealment. Whether you're dressing for the office or a casual outing, opt for outfits that not only cover your firearm but also allow for a smooth draw. Looser-fitting shirts, jackets, or pants with a bit of extra room can help hide your holster while still letting you move freely. The goal is to seamlessly blend your concealed carry setup into your everyday wardrobe without sacrificing accessibility or comfort.

Houdini Holsters Breakout 2.0

Houdini Holsters

The Breakout 2.0 IWB holster is designed to reduce printing while providing comfort and a quick, reliable draw. Its patent-pending design ensures your firearm stays securely positioned against your body, offering excellent concealment.

How the Breakout 2.0 Works

This holster features a slim profile that keeps your firearm close to your body, making it easier to conceal - even with larger handguns. The design prioritizes both discretion and functionality, ensuring a smooth and swift draw when needed.

Quality and Warranty

Crafted with care in the USA, the Breakout 2.0 is made from high-quality materials to deliver dependable retention and a seamless draw. Its precise craftsmanship ensures consistent performance, helping to prevent printing during daily wear.

Houdini Holsters backs the Breakout 2.0 with a lifetime warranty against defects and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. Priced at $69.99, it’s a practical choice for anyone looking to improve their concealed carry setup without sacrificing comfort or reliability.

Summary

Preventing printing effectively boils down to using the right holster, positioning it correctly, and pairing it with the appropriate gear. As outlined earlier, fine-tuning your holster setup and choosing the right clothing are key factors. A thoughtfully designed holster with adjustable features allows you to tailor your concealment to fit your specific needs.

A reliable belt plays a vital role by keeping your holster secure and reducing unnecessary movement, helping to maintain concealment. Pair this with clothing that balances comfort and discretion, and you’ve got a solid strategy to avoid printing.

One standout example of this approach is the Houdini Holsters Breakout 2.0. Available for $69.99 with a 36% anniversary discount through May 12, 2025, this holster showcases the latest in concealment design. Its slim profile and expert craftsmanship are designed to minimize printing while ensuring quick access when needed.

Achieving consistent concealment isn’t just about the gear - it’s about practice. Whether you prefer carrying on the hip or in the appendix position, regular training with your setup is essential for dependable performance and effective concealment.

FAQs

What’s the best way to find a carry position that minimizes printing based on my body type?

Finding the best carry position to minimize printing often comes down to your body shape, wardrobe choices, and what feels most comfortable. Start by trying out popular positions like appendix carry (AIWB), strong-side carry, or small-of-the-back carry. Each offers its own advantages, so see which one feels natural and provides good concealment. You can also tweak the cant (or angle) of your holster to better align the firearm with your body’s shape, which can significantly reduce printing.

Clothing plays a big role too. Looser fits or patterned fabrics can help disguise any outlines. Pairing this with a high-quality holster, like the Breakout 2.0 IWB holster from Houdini Holsters, can make a noticeable difference in both comfort and concealment. With some practice and minor adjustments, you’ll find the setup that works best for your specific needs.

What should I look for in a holster to ensure it conceals my firearm effectively?

When choosing a holster for effective concealment, focus on a low-profile design, comfort, and adjustability. A good holster should reduce printing (the firearm's outline showing through your clothes) while fitting naturally against your body.

Here are some features to look for:

  • Adjustable cant and ride height: These let you tweak the holster's position to improve both comfort and concealment.
  • Durable materials: Options like Kydex or leather help the holster hold its shape and keep your firearm secure.
  • Sweat guard: This feature protects your firearm from moisture and prevents irritation to your skin during long periods of wear.

A standout example is Houdini Holsters, known for their custom, handmade designs. Their Breakout 2.0 IWB holster, which is patent-pending, offers excellent concealment, comfort, and quick access. Plus, all their holsters are made in the USA and include a lifetime guarantee.

What makes the Houdini Holsters Breakout 2.0 comfortable and effective for daily concealed carry?

The Houdini Holsters Breakout 2.0 is designed with everyday concealed carry in mind, striking the perfect mix of comfort, concealment, and easy access. Its ergonomic shape reduces pressure points, making it comfortable for long hours of wear, while its slim design ensures it stays hidden under different types of clothing.

What sets the Breakout 2.0 apart is its patent-pending design, which allows for quick and dependable access to your firearm when it matters most. Made with durable, high-quality materials and crafted with precision, this holster is a reliable option for anyone who values discretion and functionality.

Related posts

Back to blog